Chocolate Pecan Cinnamon Rolls are irresistibly soft, gooey, and rich, combining a cocoa-infused dough with a sweet cinnamon-pecan filling. The glossy chocolate ganache drizzle adds a decadent finish to these delightful treats. Perfect for brunch or dessert, they are sure to please everyone at the table!

Why You’ll Love This Chocolate Pecan Cinnamon Rolls

These rolls are not just any sweet treat; they’re a delightful experience. First, the chocolate pecan rolls offer a unique flavor combination that tantalizes the taste buds. Second, they are incredibly soft and fluffy, making each bite a joy. Third, the gooey chocolate filling adds an indulgent layer that is hard to resist. Fourth, they are easy to make at home, allowing you to enjoy homemade pecan cinnamon rolls any time. Fifth, the warm aroma that fills your kitchen while baking is simply heavenly. Finally, they are perfect for sharing, making them an ideal choice for gatherings or cozy family breakfasts.

Ingredients for Chocolate Pecan Cinnamon Rolls

Gather these items:

1/2 cup granulated sugar
2 packets active dry yeast
4 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour)
2/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 tbsp instant coffee granules (optional)
2 tsp kosher salt
1 large egg (or flax egg substitute)
1 tsp pure vanilla extract
3 tbsp unsalted butter (or vegan butter)
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened (for filling)
1/2 cup light brown sugar
1 tbsp ground cinnamon
1 1/2 cups semisweet chocolate chips
1/2 cup finely chopped toasted pecans
1/2 cup heavy cream (or coconut cream)

How to Make Chocolate Pecan Cinnamon Rolls Step-by-Step

Step 1: In a small bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy and activated.

Step 2: In a large bowl, mix the yeast mixture with flour, cocoa powder, instant coffee, salt, egg, vanilla extract, and butter. Mix until a dough forms.
Step 3: Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for 5–7 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 1–2 hours until doubled in size.

Step 4: Prepare the filling by mixing softened butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon until smooth.
Step 5: After the dough has risen, punch it down and roll into a large rectangle about 1/4 inch thick. Spread the filling evenly over the dough, then sprinkle with chocolate chips and chopped pecans.

Step 6: Roll the dough tightly into a log and seal the seam. Slice into 12 equal rolls using a serrated knife or dental floss. Arrange in a greased baking dish, cover, and let rise for another 30–60 minutes until puffy.
Step 7: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for 25–30 minutes, until the rolls are golden brown and fragrant.
Step 8: For the ganache, heat heavy cream in a saucepan until just simmering. Pour over chocolate chips and stir until smooth and glossy.

Step 9: Drizzle the warm ganache over the freshly baked rolls and serve immediately for the ultimate gooey texture.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Chocolate Pecan Cinnamon Rolls

Keep these in mind:

Always use fresh yeast for the best rise.
Let the dough rise in a warm place to help it double in size.
For added flavor, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg to the filling.

These rolls can be made ahead and frozen before baking for easy breakfast options.

Best Ways to Serve Chocolate Pecan Cinnamon Rolls

Enjoy these rolls warm, straight from the oven, drizzled with chocolate ganache. Pair them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert. They also make a great addition to a brunch table alongside cinnamon rolls with chocolate and pecans and fresh fruit.

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How to Store and Reheat Chocolate Pecan Cinnamon Rolls

To store, cover the rolls tightly with plastic wrap and keep them at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, freeze them after baking and cooling completely. Reheat in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or warm in the oven at 350°F until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions About Chocolate Pecan Cinnamon Rolls

What’s the secret to perfect Chocolate Pecan Cinnamon Rolls?

The secret lies in the dough! Ensure that you knead it well for elasticity and allow it to rise adequately for that perfect fluffy texture. Using high-quality ingredients also elevates the flavor!

Can I make Chocolate Pecan Cinnamon Rolls ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the rolls up to the point of baking, cover them, and refrigerate overnight. Allow them to come to room temperature and rise before baking them in the morning.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Chocolate Pecan Cinnamon Rolls?

Avoid overworking the dough, which can make them tough. Be sure to measure your ingredients accurately and don’t rush the rising times—they’re crucial for fluffy rolls.

Variations of Chocolate Pecan Cinnamon Rolls You Can Try

For a twist on the classic, try adding chocolate sticky buns with caramel sauce or incorporate different nuts like walnuts. You can also create fluffy chocolate pecan cinnamon buns by using a different filling, such as almond paste or fruit preserves, for a gourmet touch.

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For more delicious recipes, check out our homemade cinnamon rolls or learn how to make gluten-free options. If you’re interested in baking tips, visit our baking guide for expert advice. You can also explore dessert ideas that pair well with these rolls.

Finally, for more information on the health benefits of cinnamon, you can read this Healthline article.